07/16/2026
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Lahaina's Front Street Rebuild: Where Things Stand in July 2026
Nearly three years after the wildfire, Lahaina's recovery is still in its early stages, but real signs of the rebuilding progress are starting to show, which is great to see. Between a temporary marketplace on the way, permits in hand, and the harbor open again, here's what's confirmed so far.
A Temporary Marketplace Is Coming First
'Ulu o Lele, a temporary marketplace on the site of the former Outlets of Maui, is set to open in September 2026 with 17 retail spaces, 8 food truck spaces, and a performance stage. Priority is going to businesses displaced by the 2023 wildfire, so it's a chance for familiar local names to get back on their feet before the permanent buildings are ready.
The Permanent Rebuild Is Underway
Five commercial rebuilding permits have been issued for Front Street. The addresses are:
612 Front Street, formerly Maui Hands and other shops, now a six-tenant building coming back as a near replica of the original
632 Front Street, the former Paia Fish Market location, rebuilding with a similar look and feel
714 Front Street, the Gallery Ltd. building, an art and retail space
724 Front Street, the former ABC Store
744 Front Street, Fleetwood's, the most complex project due to its historic requirements
612, 632, 714, and 724 are all being rebuilt to closely match their historic look while using modern fire resistant materials.
Alongside the permits, the county's also been upgrading the street itself. The Front Street Railing and Walkway Project added about 700 feet of new sidewalk and stainless-steel railing with a wood topper, plus 12 light poles, 15 benches, five bike racks, and eight landscaping planters with 13 milo trees and 'akai ground cover. It's a sign the county's laying groundwork for businesses to move back in.
What Visitors Can Expect Right Now
Historic Front Street is still a construction zone, so don't expect to stroll it just yet. Head a bit farther north near Lahaina Cannery instead, where Star Noodle, Mala Ocean Tavern, Honu Oceanside, Aloha Mixed Plate, and Coco Deck are all open and running.
***Wherever you go, always stay out of closed areas and respect private property.***
Lahaina Harbor Is Open Again
Lahaina Harbor has reopened. Boat tours are gradually starting back up, with companies like Trilogy, Pacific Whale Foundation, Sail Maui, and Atlantis Submarine now operating out of the harbor, which opens the door for snorkel trips and sunset sails that used to launch right from town.
Lahaina Homecoming
If you're around West Maui this month, mark your calendar. Lahaina Homecoming runs July 17 to 19, 2026, bringing residents and visitors together for food, music, and cultural events which will be held along Front Street from Prison to Dickinson street.
The Bottom Line
Lahaina's recovery keeps moving forward one step at a time. Temporary spaces like 'Ulu o Lele will bring businesses back sooner, while the permanent rebuild on Front Street continues piece by piece behind it.
The historic heart of Lahaina isn't back yet, but it's clearly on its way.
